Russian MP says Telegram should be unblocked after sanctions target state-run Max

Some Russian MPs have proposed unblocking Telegram after the state-run Max messaging app was removed from app stores, citing worsening communication problems and difficulties delivering air-raid warnings in frontline regions.

Source: The Moscow Times, an independent Amsterdam-based news outlet

Details: Sergei Obukhov, Deputy Chair of the Russian State Duma Committee on Civil Society Development, said the Russian authorities should unblock Telegram and begin seeking common ground with its founder, Pavel Durov.

He made the remarks after the state-run Max messaging app and VKontakte services were removed from Google Play, the App Store and AppGallery due to sanctions. Obukhov also pointed out that the blocking of Telegram has created problems for communications and the delivery of air raid alerts in frontline regions.

"It's only natural that the border regions are up in arms about this. So Telegram needs to be unblocked, and common ground must be found with Durov," Obukhov said.

After Telegram was "replaced" by Max, Russians stopped receiving push notifications about missile threats. However, Russia's Ministry of Digital Development "sees nothing serious in the blocking".

Background: The Council of the European Union recently updated its sanctions list by adding five companies, including the VK holding company and its separate legal entity, Communication Platform LLC, which developed Max.

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